The transition from high school to college is a tough one! There are so many aspects of a student’s first year at college that can determine their success. Dr. Andrea Brenner is the creator of American University's first-year experience program, and in this episode she gives parents and students tips on how to make the transition easier. 

Every student’s college application process is different and sometimes students receive an answer that is neither an acceptance or a rejection. What happens when a student is deferred or waitlisted? Do students really get off the waitlist? There are steps you can take to demonstrate your interest and to continue communicating with colleges of your desire to attend a particular school. In this episode, Abby Siegel, an independent college counselor, shares advice on what to do when your student gets deferred or waitlisted.

Congratulations! You have made through the hard part- the applications are submitted and the decisions are in. But how do you decide where to go? Visiting the campus, talking to students, and knowing your students' needs are just some of the ways to figure out how your student can fit at a campus. Choosing your home for the next few years is a hard decision and in this episode, Jennifer Almoney, an educator and consultant, gives parents and students tips on how they can make that choice.

It is not a secret that college is an investment and, for many families, financial aid is a critical component when it comes to paying for college. In this episode, Fitz Totten, a former Admissions officer and founder of Find the Right College, provides advice and guidance to families on how to interpret their financial aid package and the steps one would take to appeal for more aid.

When students are faced with choosing a college major, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. In this episode, Lisa Marker Robbins, independent college and career coach, takes the time to give advice to make student’s college-bound journeys feel less stressful for both parents and students. By using methods such as personality assessments and guided modules, Lisa helps students know themselves and their interests better, in order to encourage them to make informed decisions about their future.

Starting 2022 with the right mental mindset will help students not only be more productive in the classroom but also in their personal lives as well. Building good habits and routines is essential to a growth mindset. Greg Freebury joins us today to share his experience personally and as a teacher and tutor on how students can get ready for the new year and semester.

Standardized tests- love them or hate them, they are often an integral part of the college application process. But how do you prepare for them? How do you study for them? In this episode, Mike Bergin, the founding President of the Board of Directors of the National Test Prep Association provides his advice and expertise on this topic. Mike explains the difference between the ACT and SAT, advises students on the timeline and testing approach, and the importance of knowing your particular learning style when choosing what test to take.

Everyone’s educational path is different. Some may find success on a more traditional path and others may find that the best fit is an alternative option like homeschooling. In this episode, Brian Stewart, founder of BWS Education Consulting, takes the time to share the pros and cons of homeschooling. As a parent who homeschools his children, Brian sheds some light on the process and gives advice to parents who are interested in an alternative to the traditional educational approach to schooling.

 Learning how to learn is half the battle as a student. Once a student learns how to learn, they will thrive not only in the classroom but outside the classroom as well and in their professional lives as well. Evan Weinberger, Founder of Illuminous, joins us today to share his strategies and advice for how students can prepare for success in their academic environment.

Leadership. It’s not just a buzzword for college applications, but rather the continuous process of exhibiting qualities that motivate others to follow and trust you. On today’s episode, our guest Jim Bell, M.Ed., will give you advice on several characteristics of strong leaders. And, how through his years of experience, he has helped students develop leadership skills through his programs and guidance.